Open-plan offices, coworking spaces, home offices, and flexible schedules—these are just a few hallmarks of modern work concepts. Today's approach to New Work centers on empowering employees with flexible lifestyles, moving away from rigid schedules, fixed teams, assigned desks, and hierarchical structures. This transformation requires a solid foundation: robust IT infrastructure, cutting-edge collaboration tools that work across locations, adaptable office spaces, and thoughtfully designed interiors that foster well-being. Two Berlin projects demonstrate how this vision has taken shape, each exemplifying a commitment to technical excellence and design innovation.

Berlin's Most Innovative Office Building
EDGE Grand Central Berlin delivers cutting-edge workspaces across nearly 14,000 square meters. Designed by Berlin architects Bolwin Wulf, this eight-story landmark sits steps from Berlin Central Station and exceeds the highest standards in sustainable building certification.

Award-Winning Certifications
The German Sustainable Building Council (DGNB) awarded EDGE Grand Central its highest Platinum rating for construction excellence and energy performance. The building also earned Germany's first WELL Gold Core & Shell pre-certification from the International Well Building Institute (IWBI)—recognition reserved for designs that foster healthy, productive workspaces and enhance occupant well-being.

Employee Well-Being at Every Level
Four rooftop terraces, fitness and wellness rooms, a fireplace lounge, recreational spaces (table tennis, foosball, billiards), and a 400-square-meter community hub create an environment where people thrive. A smart building app puts climate control in each employee's hands—adjusting lighting, ventilation, and temperature to personal preference with a single tap.

Thoughtful Design in Every Space
The 113 meeting rooms—each uniquely sized and tech-equipped—were crafted to inspire creativity and collaboration. Bold carpeting in vibrant hues sets a welcoming tone, while Troldtekt acoustic panels in coordinating colors grace the walls. Beyond their acoustic function, these panels serve as a striking design element, adding visual interest while ensuring conversations stay private.

"everyworks" – The Future of Coworking
Work in the heart of Berlin without the commute. Deutsche Bahn's "everyworks" redefines coworking with the first flexible workspace hub directly at Berlin Central Station. Located on the tenth floor, this 1,500-square-meter space welcomes remote workers, business travelers, and teams seeking meeting space—all bookable by the minute, hour, day, or month through a simple app. A striking welcome area with integrated bar, café, and work surface sets the tone. Vibrant colors echo throughout, reflecting the space's dynamic character. Focused workers can choose from 115 bookable "Minute Seats" or 21 workstations in the dedicated Focus Area toward the rear of this light-filled interior. Nine meeting rooms (accommodating 2-8 people) come fully equipped: height-adjustable tables, Bluetooth screens (43" and 55"), oversized whiteboards, and presentation kits. Adapters (HDMI/VGA) are complimentary, as are internet, water, coffee, and tea. Premium catering is available on request.
Optimal acoustics are engineered throughout: wall treatments and textile furnishings work together to absorb sound and create focus. Black Troldtekt acoustic panels line select office walls, delivering maximum sound control and a calm working atmosphere.

Certified Acoustic Innovation

Troldtekt acoustic panels combine wood and sustainably sourced Danish cement to deliver superior sound control. A decade after earning Cradle to Cradle Silver certification, Troldtekt's entire wood wool product line advanced to Cradle to Cradle Gold—covering natural finishes, standard colors, and panels made with FUTURECEM™, a low-carbon cement option that cuts CO₂ footprint by 26-38 percent compared to conventional cement. On Material Health criteria, these products earned Platinum status.

www.troldtekt.de

Photography: Olaf Wiechers